- Hamlet's struggle with indecision and revenge: In Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the protagonist grapples with the internal conflict of avenging his father's death while doubting the truth and fearing the consequences of his actions.
- Elizabeth Bennet's prejudices and growth: In Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," Elizabeth Bennet must overcome her initial prejudices against Mr. Darcy and come to terms with her own flaws, biases, and emotions to find love.
- Jay Gatsby's pursuit of the unattainable: In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," Jay Gatsby strives to recapture a lost love and achieve a life beyond his reach, resulting in a clash between his dreams and reality.
- Rodion Raskolnikov's moral dilemma: In Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment," Raskolnikov struggles with the moral consequences of his actions after committing murder, leading him on a journey of guilt, remorse, and redemption.
- Siddhartha's spiritual quest: In Hermann Hesse's "Siddhartha," the protagonist embarks on a lifelong journey of self-discovery, delving into various philosophies and spiritual practices to find his purpose and inner peace.
- The internal conflicts of an addiction: In a story about addiction, the protagonist might grapple with the constant battle against their cravings and the desire for recovery.
- An athlete overcoming self-doubt: In a sports story, an athlete might confront self-doubt and the mental challenges that hinder their performance, working to build their confidence and mental strength.
- Mental illness and self-acceptance: In a story centered around mental health, a character might struggle with managing their condition and coming to terms with their own thoughts, emotions, and coping mechanisms.
These examples show that Man versus Himself conflicts focus on the protagonist's internal struggles, character growth, and the journey towards self-awareness, understanding, and resolution.